On my phone, I have an app called Wunderlist, where I’ve created multiple checklists of things I don’t want to forget, including one list called “Restaurants I Want to Try.” Often, these restaurants are on the list for awhile before I’m able to make it out to them, and there are times when I no longer remember why I initially put them on my list, but I know I must have had a good reason at the time, so I go with it.

Last weekend, my husband and I were in Clovis for a birthday party our son was attending at MB2. While he was supervised and happily racing with friends, we decided to venture into Old Town to find a bite to eat.

Rev’s had been on my restaurants list for months, so we decided to head there. What a great decision that was!

It was quiet when we walked inside, and an artist was updating the chalk art on the big clock that hung above the wine bar near the entrance. The restaurant extends back into a second, long room along the kitchen, and a large chef’s table anchors the room. We were seated in the front dining section, which featured comfortable yet sleek black chairs and leather booths, and modern wood tables.

Our server was very warm and friendly, and greeted us promptly. She shared that their most popular dishes were their rib-eye burger and lobster mac-n-cheese. I was hoping to eat something a bit on the lighter side, and she recommended their steak tacos. My husband ordered the burger, to be served on lettuce, and added a sunny side-up egg (he’s following the ketogenic diet).

When my husband’s burger arrived, he insisted I try a taste. Typically, I’m not a big fan of the actual meat of burgers, more so the toppings or how it tastes altogether, but I’m so glad I tried it! It was laced with fine pieces of chopped bacon, and so flavorful, smoky, and tender—it actually made me think perhaps I should like burger meat after all. I just need to eat good quality burgers like the one at Rev’s!

My tacos were served with a homemade roasted chipotle salsa, drizzled with a flavorful crema. The steak was tender and well-seasoned. I thoroughly enjoyed every bite.

After our meal we spoke with our server, who shared that she was inspired by Chef Brian Velsaquez, who is Le Cordon Bleu trained, and his wife Rene, a talented pastry chef, and the creativity and love they put into their dishes. She explained that the restaurant hosts monthly family-style dinners and Chef Velasquez makes a special menu to serve to his guests on just that night.

The rest of Rev’s menu is considered a “living menu,” meaning the items change with what’s in season and what is inspiring the Chef. There are also special Chef’s catch seafood choices and Chef’s cut meat dishes featuring Harris Ranch beef, depending on the night and what Chef Velasquez is excited to wow his guests with.

Rev’s offers California and comfort cuisine, an extensive beer and wine selection, and warm, family-style service in a comfortable and attractive location. Family is hugely important to the chefs, and children are welcome in the restaurant (a child’s menu is happily provided upon request). Rev’s also features specialty desserts such as a Snicker’s cream cheese cake, and homemade donuts and vanilla ice cream, which are a customer favorite and served on weekends.

My husband and I are really looking forward to going back to Rev’s soon for dinner, and we’re hoping to eat at the Chef’s table for one of the upcoming monthly dinners. (Keep an eye on their events calendar for updates and scheduling.)

I highly recommend giving Rev’s a try for your next dinner out. Check out their full menu here, and be sure to follow them on Facebook.